After receiving nine nominations in the highly prestigious 2012 New York Festivals early this year, GMA News and Public Affairs is recognized anew.

The Kapuso Network’s flagship primetime newscast 24 Oras has been nominated in the News Competition for the 24-Hours News Program category in the esteemed 52^nd Monte Carlo Television Festival.

GMA’s 24 Oras is the only nominee from the Philippines and one of only two nominees from Asia for the said category, the other one being from Qatar.  It will also be competing against internationally recognized news organizations such as CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera. 

Anchored by GMA News pillars Mel Tiangco and Mike Enriquez, 24 Oras was nominated for its coverage of the devastation brought by Typhoon Pedring (international name Nesat) in late September of last year.

24 Oras provided an extensive coverage of the disaster with gripping images of a capital buffeted by strong winds that triggered a storm surge in Manila Bay. Waves as high as coconut trees lashed Roxas Boulevard and practically destroyed the Baywalk Area. The rising waters of ManilaBay also flooded the U.S. Embassy and even inundated a five-star hotel.

But 24 Oras went beyond Metro Manila and into the center of every calamity-stricken area, from Northern Luzon to the Bicol region, through GMA News and Public Affair’s team of reporters.

Going beyond the usual reportage, 24 Oras served as a medium to extend help to the areas most devastated by the typhoon. Advisories about class suspensions and updates on the movement of the typhoon were also constantly given to viewers to avoid further damages and casualties.

More importantly, the newscast showcased how the Pinoy prevails in the face of adversity.

The Festival de Télévision de Monte-Carlo, which was established by Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1961 “to encourage a new art form, in the service of peace and understanding between men,” is considered as one of the most distinguished international award-giving bodies today.

The Monte-Carlo Television Festival awards ceremony is slated to take place on June 2012 at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.